Governor Announces Membership in the Military and Defense Advisory Council
In a press release today Governor Rell announced the membership of the Military and Defense Advisory Council that was established by legislation in the last session.
The council’s membership will include leaders in the State’s defense and homeland security presence. Members are appointed by the Governor and serve voluntarily, for indefinite terms and without compensation.
Justin Bernier, Executive Director of the State’s Office of Military Affairs, will chair the council. Other members will include:
- Commanding Officer of Submarine Base New London
- Superintendent of the United States Coast Guard Academy
- Adjutant General for the Connecticut National Guard
- Commissioner of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs
- Commissioner of the Department of Economic and Community Development
- President of the Connecticut Business and Industry Association
- President of the Manufacturing Alliance Connecticut
- Commander of the American Legion Department of Connecticut
- Commander of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Connecticut; and
- A senior service member from a Connecticut-based Reserve unit.
I am not sure why the President and CEO of CBIA or the Manufacturing Alliance are on the Military and Defense Advisory Council. They have other venues to reach the administration when the have issues that require State support. The Governor would have been better served if an officer of some Military Spouse Organization were represented on the Council. Maybe Governor Rell can make an additional appointment. However, it is hoped that this high-powered group will give the executive branch good advice for supporting the military installations in the State.